Rising land prices in central Tokyo’s redevelopment zones are fueling a resurgence of malicious land acquisition practices. Reports indicate escalating instances of arson being used to pressure residents into selling their properties. This tactic aims to facilitate redevelopment by clearing land, often targeting holdouts unwilling to sell. Authorities are investigating a recent increase in these incidents, linking them to speculative real estate investment. The situation raises concerns about the safety and rights of residents in areas undergoing rapid urban transformation. This trend echoes past issues with aggressive land buying tactics employed during previous redevelopment booms in Tokyo.